HRT (Oestrogen) Patches
HRT (Oestrogen) Patches
Oestrogen patches are useful because they are applied as a translucent plaster placed below the waist, to the hip, outer thigh, lower tummy or bottom and are only changed twice a week.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Liz Andrew
BMS Accredited Menopause Doctor
Reviewed: 19/02/2025 Published: 21/02/2025
Benefits of HRT Patches
Oestrogen patches are applied as a translucent plaster placed below the waist, such as on the hip, outer thigh, lower abdomen, or buttock, and are changed only twice a week. They offer a convenient and discreet way to receive HRT.
Unlike tablets, oestrogen patches do not increase the risk of blood clots and may help reduce some side effects of HRT, such as indigestion. They can also be helpful for people who experience migraines, as they provide a steady dose of oestrogen, which may reduce migraine frequency.
Patches can be worn while bathing, showering, or swimming and deliver a continuous, consistent dose of hormone. They are available in different strengths, although adjusting the dose can be less flexible than with some other forms of HRT.
Some women may find that patches cause skin irritation, reactions to the adhesive, or problems with sticking, while others find them very easy to use and often forget about them between changes.
Key information about HRT (Oestrogen) patches
Learn more about your treatment options
Book a complementary discovery call with our patient expert Jane James. Jane can help you by:
- Explaining the clinical pathway and how oestrogen patches can be prescribed through Menopause Care
- Offering guidance as to whether you may benefit from hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Share personal insight and other patient experiences of oestrogen treatment (non-clinical advice)
- Offering compassionate support and a safe, confidential space to openly discuss your concerns
What are the differences between the different HRT patch brands?
There are oestrogen-only patches as well as some combined patches containing both oestrogen and progesterone. Which type you are prescribed depends on your circumstances and medical history.
Estradot is a brand of oestrogen-only patch and comes in five different strengths, giving flexibility of dosing. Each prescribed carton contains 8 Estradot patches, enough for a 4-week cycle. This can be used on its own (in those without a womb) or alongside progesterone to give flexibility of dosing.
It is soft, small and often sticks well. You apply it to the hairless skin on your hip, thigh or bottom and change your patch twice weekly. You should not put the patches on top of cuts, spots or anywhere where the skin is irritated and should avoid using cream, moisturiser or talc before application. You also need to rotate where you place each new patch so as not to apply on the same area of skin twice in a row.
The patch delivers a continuous and controlled dose of estradiol that is absorbed by the skin and into the bloodstream. There are other brands including Evorel which are slightly larger.
Contact us (M-F)